Patrick Emerling proved his team's hard work paid off at the Clash at Claremont, securing his first victory of the season. The No. USNE Motorsports team had prepared for this event by making extra trips to the track in the weeks leading up to the race, using the opportunity to get a feel for the venue and prepare for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour competition.
Emerling qualified fourth but managed to draw the pole position in the pre-race redraw, allowing him to lead the field. Despite leading the opening laps, perennial contender Matt Hirschman utilized a restart just past Lap 30 to take the lead. Emerling managed to stay close during the long green-flag run, eventually passing Hirschman late in the race to claim his win.
This victory marks a significant moment for Emerling, as it is his first Modified Tour win of the season and his tenth career victory. The win also propelled him to the top of the Modified Tour championship standings, surpassing Stephen Kopcik, who had been leading points entering the event.
The race saw several other drivers finish in the top spots, including Jon McKennedy in third place and Austin Beers in fourth. While Hirschman acknowledged Emerling's pace, Emerling’s performance solidified his position in the championship battle as the season progresses.
Source: Short Track Scene